Somatic Trauma Healing & Counseling

Wilderness Rites of Passage Guidework

Rooted in Community, in Body, and in Land

To find footing and to feel alive within a chaotic, dying world, we must slow down and listen. And for most of us- that’s way easier said than done. Old, stuck patterns, wounds, and fears can keep us disconnected and unable to safely access a full thriving life.

Have you seen a burnt or old tree envelop its old, wounded parts in fresh new bark and tissue?

Nature, including our human bodies, knows how to heal itself, if we give it the attention, curiosity, and permission to do so.

My role as a certified Somatic Experiencing™ Practitioner (SEP) and Rites of Passage guide is to serve as guide, companion, and witness to this bottom-up, long-lasting healing process between ourselves, our bodies, and the world around us.

I work with all humans, genders, and ages 14+ offering sessions in person in Occidental, CA, and virtually with folks anywhere in the world.

  • Gnarled tree covered in snow with surrounding snowy landscape.

    Somatic Trauma Counseling

    In-person or virtual 1:1 sessions to strengthen the nervous system, expand behavioral flexibility, and live more fully. With Somatic Experiencing™ we work on healing from the bottom up rather than simply top-down management of our trauma and nervous systems.

    See reciprocity page for pricing and accessibility information.

    Learn More about Somatic Counseling

  • Somatic Experiencing™ Touch Work

    Somatic Experiencing® (SE) touch work creates space for your body’s natural ability to heal from stress and trauma with the support of co-regulating and containing touch. Through a non-manipulative listening touch, this component of the work is another way to help build a resilient nervous system, release accumulated tension, and restore a sense of safety and ease.

    This kind of healing on a deeper, body-based level is supportive both for physical symptoms associated with chronic conditions, injuries and accidents, as well as symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental/emotional symptoms of trauma.

    Learn More about SE™ Touch Work
  • Group of people sitting in a circle in a forest, engaged in conversation, surrounded by trees and greenery.

    Community Offerings, Workshops & Ceremonies

    Nature-based group ceremonies, programs, & council groups. Because we need to be seen and witnessed bravely in our fullness.

    You can find a list of upcoming programs I am offering or supporting, and I am available for facilitating private and/or community-based ceremonies for those interested.

    See Upcoming Programs

  • "Working with Sam has been a transformative experience for me. Sam’s gentle guidance, enables me to effectively and safely address stored trauma and stress. This powerful and holistic approach to healing is something I’d encourage to anyone seeking a deeper level of self-awareness and well-being.”

    -Bhavani, 1:1 Somatic Counseling Participant

  • "Sam's guidework on the Rite of Passage Journeys Mountain Quest was truly transformative for my son. It marked his transition from a boy to a young man in a profound way. Sam's mentorship extended far beyond the journey, providing a safe and supportive space for [my son] to navigate life's challenges. I am immensely grateful for Sam's role in my son's journey to adulthood.”

    -Joel N., Father of Mountain Quest and Somatic Counseling Participant

  • “Sam possesses a healing and joyful presence. He brings fresh energy to every session and his smile always lights up my soul. They are a skilled and experienced practitioner of nature healing modalities. He brings a unique and gentle approach to one-on-one sessions devoted to using a calm presence that aids anyone looking for thoughtful reflection on their own personal healing journey. If you are looking for a kind and compassionate approach from a queer guide who understands the wide-spectrum of gender, sexuality, and identity, Sam is the person you will want to turn to…”

    -Sam, Ceremony Integration Guidework participant